10 Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta
What is Puerto Vallarta Most Famous For?
The best things to do in Puerto Vallarta don’t stray far from the resort town’s beautiful coastline. It is internationally recognised for its charm and friendliness, with life revolving around the ocean. The coastal city has some of Mexico’s most pristine beaches, most of which are great for water sports and whale-watching tours. There is plenty to see on land as well, whether you want to embrace some local culture or explore the area’s biodiversity.
Exploring Old Vallarta and its traditional architecture gives you a real feel for the Spanish colonial atmosphere. But the city also embraces modern culture – some of the finest galleries in all of Mexico are clustered together along a few small streets in the Centro area and public sculptures dot the city. Read on for our guide of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta in a day.
What are the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta?
1. Playa Los Muertos
Windsurfing at Puerto Vallarta’s main beach
Categoría: Foto, Económico, De aventura
Puerto Vallarta’s main beach, Playa Los Muertos (Beach of the Dead) is hugely popular, with lots of places to eat and drink and a variety of water sports on offer. The 1-km-long shoreline has a modern pier that’s shaped like a sail, where you get to enjoy views of boats dotted across Banderas Bay. The waters are calm throughout the year, and attract those who enjoy jet-skiing and windsurfing.
Ubicación: Playa Los Muertos, Jalisco, Mexico
Playa Los Muertos
2. Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Enjoy street processions in early December
Categoría: Parejas, Historia, Foto, Económico
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe is dedicated to the patron saint of Mexico and of Puerto Vallarta. The centre of the cathedral’s marble altarpiece holds the image of the lady. The brick bell tower is adorned with a crown that pays homage to the one worn by Carlota, who was briefly empress of Mexico in the 1860s.
From December 1st until 12th, people come together to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This is a good time to visit the cathedral thanks to street processions, festive food and mariachi music.
Ubicación: Hidalgo 370, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
Horarios: Monday–Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm
Teléfono: +52 322 222 1326
Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe
3. Los Arcos Marine Park
Swim among tropical fish in Banderas Bay
Categoría: De aventura
The Los Arcos Marine Park is a protected area in Banderas Bay, on the west coast of Mexico. Boat trips take you to the park’s granite islands, many of which look like arches protruding from the ocean surface. Snorkelers and divers often make their way to the Los Arcos Marine Park as they get to see colourful reefs and marine animals, such as octopus, clown fish, rays, octopus, and lobsters.
Ubicación: Frente a Mismaloya, 48354 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
Los Arcos Marine Park
4. Playa Olas Altas
Watch surfers tackling the waves
Categoría: Parejas, De aventura, Solteros
Playa Olas Altas (High Waves Beach) is a quiet stretch of beach about 1 km north of Playa Los Muertos Pier. The waves are strong enough to surf, sometimes reaching heights of 2 metres and above. The best time to enjoy surfing in Playa Olas Altas is from April to October. You can also enjoy relaxing activities such as sunbathing, but head up north to the Carpa Olivera pool if you want to swim.
Ubicación: Playa Olas Altas, Jalisco, Mexico
Playa Olas Altas
5. Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz
Scenic spot offering spectacular bay and city views
Categoría: Foto, Económico, De aventura
Mirador La Cruz del Cerro is a lookout point topped by a giant cross that offers a fantastic view over Puerto Vallarta and beyond. The mountain is of a modest height, but the hike up is sure to get you huffing and puffing. A cable car that used to take visitors up the last section is no longer in operation, so visitors will need to use their leg power to make it to the top.
Several trails lead up to Mirador La Cruz del Cerro, with most hikers going up via Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez Street. Clear days allow for fine views of Los Arcos and even out as far as Punta de Mita. Try to time your visit to arrive late in the day to be able to catch fabulous sunset views.
Ubicación: Abasolo LB, Cerro, 48304 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
Mirador el Cerro de la Cruz
6. Cuale Archaeological Museum
Motifs by one of Mexico’s few remaining indigenous tribes
Categoría: Historia, Foto
Museo del Cuale (Cuale Archaeological Museum) is small but packed with interesting finds. Pre-Columbian figures, Indian artefacts, shaft tombs, together with exhibits of Aztatlán and Purépecha cultures and the Spanish conquest are some of the treasures in store.
Fascinating creations of the Huichol tribe, one of the few remaining indigenous groups that still maintain ancient customs and beliefs, can also be found here. They are known locally for creating traditional motifs, such as symbolic animals and birds, in intricately detailed beadwork and yarn-paintings.
Ubicación: Isla de los Niños del Río Coale s/n Centro, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
Horarios: Tuesday–Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
Cuale Archaeological Museum
7. Cuale Island Flea Market
Mexican crafts at an indoor market
Categoría: Ir de compras, Económico
Cuale Island Flea Market is a 2-storey building with dozens of stalls, where you can shop for everything Mexican. From sarapes (shawls), sandals, souvenirs and tee-shirts to jewellery, leather goods and handicraft items, there are plenty of things to include in your shopping bag when you’re in the area.
Keep your energy up for all that shopping at one of the food stalls selling Jalisco food. These include tacos, tamales, and pico de gallo (diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, serrano chili, and lime juice).
Ubicación: Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
Horarios: Daily from 9 am to 9 pm
Cuale Island Flea Market
8. Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Mexico’s largest orchid collection
Categoría: Parejas, Familias, Foto
Vallarta Botanical Gardens attracts nature lovers and those who want to relax with views of exotic flowers, plants and trees. There are numerous hiking trails for visitors to explore the carefully presented collections. The orchid collection in particular is one to look out for – they aim to keep the title of ‘Mexico’s biggest orchid collection’. Besides walking through the gardens, you can take a dip in the neighbouring Rio Horcones emerald pools.
Ubicación: Carret. Barra De Navidad Km. 24, Las Juntas y los Veranos, 48447 Jal., Mexico
Horarios: April–November: Tuesday–Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. December–March: daily from 9 am to 6 pm
Teléfono: +52 322 223 6182
Vallarta Botanical Gardens
9. Malecón
Climb the lighthouse for panoramic ocean views
Categoría: Parejas, Familias, Solteros, Grupos
Malecón, a promenade that stretches almost 1 km, connecting the city’s historic centre to the waterfront. Grab some refreshment at one of the many cafes before crossing the swinging bridges to Cuale Island, where you can browse the numerous market stalls. For a great view of the bay, make sure you climb the Matamoros lighthouse. Those in search of marine life should prepare their cameras for humpback whale sightings.
Ubicación: Paseo Díaz Ordaz S/N, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
Malecón
10. Los Arcos Amphitheater
Free concerts at an open-air theatre
Categoría: Familias, Vida nocturna, Solteros, Grupos
The Los Arcos Amphitheatre, which also goes by the name Aquiles Serdán Theatre, is a Vallarta landmark. The 4 distinctive stone arches that back the theatre have become symbol of the city. It’s used regularly as an open-air theatre for cultural performances and festivals on weekends and during holidays. Choirs, bands and dancers put on performances most nights and they are usually free to watch. The sunsets are also pretty special from here – the arches and Banderas Bay making the perfect backdrop.
Ubicación: Malecón s/n, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
Los Arcos Amphitheater
Este artículo incluye opiniones del equipo editorial de Go Guides. Hoteles.com compensa a sus autores por los artículos que se muestran en el sitio. La compensación puede incluir costos de viaje y otros costos.